The Vienna Children's University, which has been operating since 2003, opens its doors for two weeks every summer to renowned institutions such as the University of Vienna, the Vienna University of Medicine, the Vienna University of Technology, the Vienna University of Natural and Life Sciences, the Vienna University of Veterinary Medicine, the Vienna FH Campus and the Vienna University of Economics. At the Vienna Children's University, children between the ages of 7 and 12 can learn just like at a real university: they can listen to lectures by renowned researchers and scientists in large lecture halls, or they can attend workshops in small groups – all for free!
Although the programs are free, without parental support it is still more difficult for some children to attend university than others. Vienna is now continuing the children's university education in parks and public spaces with the help of volunteers. Thus, a bench in the neighboring park is transformed into a lecture hall, and the meadow behind the houses into a research laboratory. Anyone can take part in the “KinderUniWien on Tour” sessions without registering, and for those who do not have the opportunity, volunteers help them get to the parks and accompany them throughout the day. During the summer holidays, this is a special event for the children. As soon as they arrive at the sessions, they immediately become part of the community: they wear the same shirt, there is no discrimination, they sharpen their ears and master it. They can ask their questions in up to 5 different languages. No language and no distance can hinder this summer holiday experience.
Among the 4,500 young students at the Vienna Children's University, which has been operating since 2003, this year there were more than 200 children from social institutions and refugee organizations who had recently arrived in Vienna and were able to spend a special day at the courses. Through the program, the children can experience the experience of studying at a university, with everything that comes with it: from the student card to the graduation ceremony.
